Plumbing projects can feel a bit overwhelming. If you happen to be new to the world of pipes, valves and wrenches, you’ll likely run into a few difficulties when trying to repair that pesky leak all by yourself. But don’t worry. With the right knowledge and a little patience, you can tackle many small plumbing issues around the house. Doing so will save you both time and money.
The 2 Bro’s Plumbing team is made up of knowledgeable, trained plumbers who have acquired the ability to quickly and accurately diagnose the work that needs to be done. Just leave it to us to help the inexperienced plumber in you to gain some confidence!
Locate the main water shut-off valve before you get started.
Before attempting any plumbing task, it’s crucial to locate your main water shut-off valve. In case of a leak or emergency, shutting off the water supply can prevent extensive water damage. In most homes, you’ll find it near where the water line enters the house. That’s usually the basement or along an exterior wall.
As we’ve blogged about before, knowing where to find your home’s main water valve will help you to prevent water damage and avoid frozen pipes during the winter, among other benefits.
Don’t hesitate to fix leaky faucets.
“I’ll get to it eventually” is not a phrase that should be uttered by any homeowner with a leak in his or her house. A dripping faucet might not seem like a big issue. However, over time, it can waste a lot of water. This won’t just cause some potentially expensive water damage, but it will also drive up your water bill. We once blogged about the fact that leaks can waste thousands of litres of water every year and cause major structural damage to your home.
Fixing a leaky faucet doesn’t require too much effort, so don’t procrastinate. Most faucet leaks are caused by worn-out washers or gaskets. They can be easily replaced with basic tools. Not only will fixing leaks save water, but it will also help keep your plumbing in good condition.
Invest in a quality plunger.
You certainly don’t need to be a professional plumber in order to possess a high-end plunger. This item should be a common fixture in every bathroom. A plunger is one of the most versatile tools a homeowner can have. It is the go-to device for fixing clogs in toilets, sinks and tubs. Be sure to buy a good-quality plunger that creates a strong seal around the drain. This maximizes suction.
For toilets, choose a flange plunger. It has an additional extension at the bottom to create a better fit. The extension, which takes the form of a small cup, is known as the flange. It’s perfectly designed to create a tight seal in a toilet’s drain. This helps to dislodge the clog much better than a cup plunger which usually doesn’t provide enough suction and tends to flip inside out.
Could you use some more help with getting the inexperienced plumber in you to gain confidence? Go ahead and call your friends at 2 Bro’s Plumbing by dialing 905-556-0790. You may also email us at admin@2brosplumbing.ca.